Since its creation the "Cross-Channel Photographic Mission" has been concerned with the transformations associated with the development of European networks. It is important to stress however that the powers which lie behind European decision-making are often opaque. For example, the words "commision" and "parliament" have different meanings according to whether they are seen in a national or a Community context. Moreover beyond institutions, politics no longer seem to be the sole arbiter of power. Economics, increasingly global in their influence, wield more and more authority.

It seemed wise to us therefore to look at European power in its various guises. Christian Courreges has made portraits of political personalities -some of whom, sometimes oppose the prevailing free-market ideology- of top civil servants, executives, industrialists, trade-union leaders, and of people symbolising the process of European standardisation.

With a vision far from that of communications consultants, Christian Courreges reflects on the representation of power and the power of representation.